CD8(+) T Cell-Mediated Immunity during Trypanosoma cruzi Infection: A Path for Vaccine Development?

Author(s)

Virgilio, Fernando dos Santos ; Pontes, Camila ; Dominguez, Mariana Ribeiro ; Ersching, Jonatan ; Rodrigues, Mauricio Martins ; Vasconcelos, Jose Ronnie

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Mediators of Inflammation; v. 2014, p. 12-pg., 2014-01-01.

Abstract

MHC-restricted CD8(+) T cells are important during infection with the intracellular protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. Experimental studies performed in the past 25 years have elucidated a number of features related to the immune response mediated by these T cells, which are important for establishing the parasite/host equilibrium leading to chronic infection. CD8(+) T cells are specific for highly immunodominant antigens expressed by members of the trans-sialidase family. After infection, their activation is delayed, and the cells display a high proliferative activity associated with high apoptotic rates. Although they participate in parasite control and elimination, they are unable to clear the infection due to their low fitness, allowing the parasite to establish the chronic phase when these cells then play an active role in the induction of heart immunopathology. Vaccination with a number of subunit recombinant vaccines aimed at eliciting specific CD8(+) T cells can reverse this path, thereby generating a productive immune response that will lead to the control of infection, reduction of symptoms, and reduction of disease transmission. Due to these attributes, activation of CD8(+) T lymphocytes may constitute a path for the development of a veterinarian or human vaccine. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/13668-0 - Importance of proliferation and recirculation of effector memory CD8+ t cells for the success of genetic vaccination using the heterologous prime-boost regimen
• Grantee: Maurício Martins Rodrigues
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 09/06820-4 - Characterization of antigen presenting cells capable of initiating the immune response and control the immunodominance during Trypanosoma cruzi infection
• Grantee: Maurício Martins Rodrigues
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/22514-3 - Migration study of specific T cells generated by vaccination or Trypanosoma cruzi infection
• Grantee: Jose Ronnie Carvalho de Vasconcelos
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants